Couples counselling therapy (also called couples therapy or marriage counselling) is a specialized form of psychotherapy designed to use a structured psychological interventions in which a Registered Psychologist works with a couple to help them identify their issues, understand each other perspectives, and modify unhealthy interactions. Our Registered Psychologists are trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and Attachment -based Practice. These types of therapies aim for building trust and intimacy, emotional closeness, improve communication, identifying and addressing the Four Horsemen of Relationship Conflict which are criticism, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling.
What to Expect in the Intake & sebseqent Phase of Couples Counselling Calgary
At Soul-Alliance Psychological Services, we follow the structured process and it is designed to help the therapist have a clear and research-based understanding of your relationship’s strengths and challenges. 1. First Joint Session:
You and your partner will be sharing about what brought you to couples counselling and your hopes for therapy.
We conduct the Oral History Interview — a conversation about how you met, what attracted you to each other, memorable early times, attachment styles, major life events and how your relationship has evolved or changed over time.
You will have a short mildly disturbing conflict discussion while we observe your communication patterns (tone, listening, feelings, communication styles, repair attempts).
2. The second session will be conducted individually for each partner:
The separate session allows each person to speak openly about their perspective, personal history, and any concerns they may not feel comfortable sharing in front of their partner. Individuals will be sharing about the issues that affect the relationship or the marriage. This will help the therapist understand the issues at a deeper level and create awareness of the issue or other influences that are outside of the relationship. We call it “ the package that each partner brings to their relationship" and this could include mental health concerns, relationships with extended family members, friends etc. Most Gottman therapists follow and talk about a “no secrets” policy. This means that couples are not obligated to share their “secrets” with their couples therapist when they are not ready to bring them to their partner during the sessions.
3. Feedback, Treatment Planning and Interventions Session:
In this session, you and your partner will meet with your couples therapist again and present a clear summary of your relationship strengths, the main patterns that need attention, a personalized treatment plan and providing tools and active skills training.
When to Consider Couples Counselling
Couples counselling is highly recommended when you are facing any of the following issues: 1. Have frequent arguments or unresolved conflicts. 2. Emotional and relational distance. 3. Trust and infidelity issues. 4. Communication difficulties. 5. Major life transitions. 6. Parenting disagreements.
Our Approach at Soul-Alliance Psychological Services
Our Calgary psychologists are trained in the Gottman Method Couples Therapy (the most extensively researched couples therapy approach in the world) combined with attachment-based therapy. This powerful integration helps couples:
Understand each partner’s emotional needs and attachment style.
Replace destructive conflict patterns with healthy ones.
Rebuild trust, connection, and intimacy.
Develop tools they can use in managing future conflicts. We do not simply “problem-solve” during therapy but our goal is to equip you with skills so you can manage any future challenge together.
Ready to Invest in Your Relationship?
If you’re searching for couples counselling in Calgary, or marriage counselling, Soul-Alliance Psychological Services offers a supportive, professional environment where real change happens. Our South Calgary clinic (Midpark Way SE) provides both in-person and virtual sessions. We would be honoured to support you and your partner on this journey. The first step is often the hardest — but it is also the most hopeful. Contact Soul-Alliance Psychological Services to schedule your session. Your relationship deserves the best care possible.
